From Distracted To Devoted - Week 2

Day 1: Embracing Opposition
Intimacy with God invites opposition. When we decide to deepen our relationship with Jesus, we often face challenges that test our faith. This is not a sign of failure but a testament to our commitment. Jesus Himself faced opposition right after His baptism, a spiritual high point. This pattern shows us that spiritual highs are often followed by challenges. Embrace these moments as opportunities to grow closer to God.

Bible Verse: Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. - Matthew 4:1

Question: How do you usually respond to opposition in your spiritual journey? Do you see it as a setback or an opportunity to grow closer to God?

Prayer: Lord, help me to see opposition as a sign of my growing intimacy with You. Give me the strength to face these challenges with faith and trust in Your plan. Amen.

Day 2: The Struggle is Real
Following Jesus is supposed to make our lives better, but it often brings struggles we might not expect. Many Christians avoid these struggles, thinking they are not part of the Christian life. However, Jesus promised that we would face challenges. These struggles are not a sign of weakness but a part of our spiritual growth. Embrace them and trust that God is with you through every trial.

Bible Verse: In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. - 2 Timothy 3:12

Question: Are there struggles in your life that you have been avoiding? How can you face them with the confidence that God is with you?

Prayer: Father, give me the courage to face the struggles in my life. Help me to see them as opportunities to grow in my faith and trust in You. Amen.

Day 3: The Power of Scripture
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He responded with Scripture. This shows us the power of God's Word in overcoming temptation. Knowing Scripture well is essential for our spiritual battles. It equips us to counteract doubt and temptation. Make it a habit to read and meditate on God's Word daily, so you are prepared to face any challenge that comes your way.

Bible Verse: For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12

Question: How well do you know Scripture? Are you prepared to use it as a weapon against temptation and doubt?

Quote: The word of God is powerful and it's sharp. That's why you speak the word of God over the temptation that you're faced with.

Prayer: Lord, help me to immerse myself in Your Word. Give me the wisdom to understand it and the strength to use it in my daily battles. Amen.

Day 4: Trusting God Over Self-Reliance
One of the temptations Jesus faced was to turn stones into bread, prioritizing His physical needs over His spiritual mission. This teaches us the importance of trusting God over self-reliance. Our physical desires and comforts should not take priority over our spiritual walk. Trust that God will provide for your needs as you seek His kingdom first.

Bible Verse: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. - Deuteronomy 8:3

Question: Are there areas in your life where you are relying more on yourself than on God? How can you shift your focus to trust Him more?

Quote: Many of us are letting our physical desires, our comfort, our hunger, take priority over our spiritual walk.

Prayer: Father, help me to trust You more than I trust myself. Teach me to prioritize my spiritual walk over my physical desires. Amen.

Day 5: Victory is Near
Some of you are so close to seeing the victory. Just as Jesus was tempted after 40 days in the wilderness, you might be on the brink of a breakthrough. Don't give up now. Trust that God is with you and that victory is near. Keep your focus on Him and continue to rely on His Word. Your perseverance will be rewarded.

Bible Verse: Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. - Matthew 6:33

Quote: Some of you are so close to seeing the victory. You're so close to the end of this, 40 days in the wilderness. You're so close, but you're gonna throw in the towel right before you see victory. DON'T! Wait on God! 

Prayer: Lord, give me the strength to persevere. Help me to keep my focus on You and trust that victory is near. Amen.